Madagascar is facing the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Elvis, which caused five deaths, as it prepares for Cyclone Faida expected on February 4. Elvis brought heavy rainfall and strong winds, impacting southern regions. Faida has already formed and poses potential risks to northern areas. The nation’s vulnerability to cyclones underscores the urgent need for improved weather forecasting and disaster preparedness amidst climate change challenges.
Madagascar is preparing for Tropical Cyclone Faida, which is expected to hit its northern coast on February 4. This comes in the wake of Tropical Cyclone Elvis, which resulted in at least five fatalities, primarily due to lightning in the Vohibato district. The recent storm caused significant rainfall and winds, impacting regions like Toliara and Taolagnaro and leaving behind injuries as well.
Cyclone Elvis originated in the Mozambique Channel on January 28 and struck Madagascar’s southwestern coast the following day. With maximum sustained winds reaching 84 kilometers per hour (52 mph), it dumped substantial rainfall over southern Madagascar, where Toliara and Taolagnaro experienced over 196 millimeters (7.7 inches) and 178 millimeters (7 inches), respectively. Elvis dissipated over the southern Indian Ocean over the weekend, but communities are now anticipating additional severe weather.
Tropical Cyclone Faida emerged over the southern Indian Ocean on January 23 and impacted Mauritius and Réunion Island before heading for Madagascar’s northern regions. As indicated in a report from the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO), Faida possesses winds of up to 65 km/h (40 mph) and is likely to strengthen upon landfall. It is forecasted to affect several regions within Madagascar.
Local authorities in Réunion Island have alerted residents to remain vigilant regarding weather updates and to prepare emergency supplies in light of the impending storm. Prior to Elvis, the region was struck by Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi, resulting in flooding, landslides, and ten reported deaths in Madagascar. This cyclone also affected local wildlife conservation efforts, notably drowning numerous tortoises.
Meteorologists and economists are collaborating in Zambia to enhance weather forecasting methodologies in Southern Africa amidst concerns about climate change intensifying storm patterns in the region. Increased cyclone occurrences have been noted, such as the devastation caused by Tropical Cyclone Chido in December. Improving predictive capacities is essential for mitigating future storm impacts.
Recent climatic events highlight Madagascar’s vulnerability to tropical cyclones, exacerbated by climate change factors leading to more frequent storms. The region has faced significant challenges, including fatalities and environmental damage due to these cyclones. Storms such as Elvis and Faida have directly contributed to loss of life, injury, and environmental degradation, prompting a sustained focus on disaster preparedness and response strategies in both Madagascar and neighboring regions.
In conclusion, Madagascar is currently contending with the aftermath of Cyclone Elvis while simultaneously bracing for Cyclone Faida. The recent storms have resulted in fatalities and significant rainfall, affecting both communities and local ecosystems. Continued efforts are required to enhance forecasting capabilities and disaster preparedness in anticipation of future climatic disturbances as they are likely to increase due to ongoing climate change.
Original Source: news.mongabay.com
